The album, despite the recovery of a certain aggressiveness, is very catchy and easily accessible.

 Child of Prophecy is the only track where Myrath truly aren’t afraid to show who they are, aren’t afraid to be metal or to be Arabic.

Karma sees Myrath partially restoring their metal roots while embracing stronger melodic and symphonic elements. The album is accessible and catchy but lacks the full aggression and authenticity of their earlier works. Instrumental performances stand out, especially in bass and drums. Although less Arabic in some tracks, the band’s distinctive oriental influence remains. It’s a solid release that reflects both artistic maturity and commercial considerations. Discover Myrath’s evolving sound in Karma—listen now for a unique blend of catchy melodies and oriental metal flair!

 Myrath partially destroyed the perfect mix they had created to immediately propose something very light and accessible.

 The latest Myrath seems really like a sort of neo-melodic Arab music with just some distorted guitars in the background, not really the oriental metal they would like us to believe.

Myrath's album Shehili continues to blend progressive/power metal with North African and Middle Eastern folk elements. However, the album leans toward a softer, more orchestral sound than past releases, disappointing fans hoping for heavier metal. The reviewer appreciates the band's unique style but critiques the radical shift away from the powerful metal mix that defined their earlier success. Shehili offers positive energy and authenticity but may feel more like melodic Arabic music than metal at times. Discover Myrath’s unique blend of Arabic folk and metal—listen to Shehili today and decide if this softer style speaks to you.

 MASTERPIECE!!!

 A breathless, tightly packed album, where all the pieces are engaging and overwhelming, on the verge of moving you to tears...

Incenere's album Ombre is praised as a masterpiece, blending powerful punk music with an ever-present violin that complements the sound perfectly. The band's evolution from previous groups adds depth, while the music delivers an emotional, overwhelming experience that resonates deeply. The reviewer strongly recommends purchasing the album on Bandcamp. Listen to Incenere's Ombre now on Bandcamp and experience this punk masterpiece!

 Maō Taiten was the seventh studio album by Onmyo-Za, released on July 25, 2007, and the first album to reach the 13th position on the Japanese chart, to date remaining their best-selling album.

 The track Maō is characterized by heavy, thrash, and progressive parts; the track also features the use of growl and a vocal technique typical of Gagaku.

Onmyo-Za's 2007 album Maō Taiten marks a return to their heavy metal roots after a more pop-oriented 2005 release. The album draws heavily on Japanese history, especially Oda Nobunaga, blending thrash, progressive, and traditional Japanese vocal techniques. It is their best-selling album, reaching number 13 on Japanese charts. While regarded as one of their strongest works, the reviewer views other albums like Kishibojin as superior. Dive into Onmyo-Za's Maō Taiten and experience heavy metal fused with Japan's rich history—listen now!

 Unlike their earlier works, Fuuin Kairan shows a noticeable improvement in production quality and greater maturity in arrangements.

 This is an excellent album of pure heavy metal and is recommended to all those who love Loudness and Japanese metal in general.

Onmyo-Za's 2002 EP Fuuin Kairan showcases a refined blend of classic heavy metal and Japanese folk music. Featuring enhanced production and powerful vocals by Kuroneko, the album delivers thrashy riffs and folklore-inspired themes. Tracks range from heavy and speedy metal to acoustic ballads, making it a standout in Japanese metal. Recommended for fans of Loudness and traditional metal styles. Listen to Onmyo-Za's Fuuin Kairan and experience the fierce fusion of classic metal and Japanese folklore today!

 The characteristic of Dreamspirit is their blend of classic heavy metal with traditional Chinese instruments.

 An interesting album that is well-produced and well-played, recommended for fans of Folk Metal and those interested in discovering new bands from non-English-speaking countries.

Dreamspirit’s 'General Triumphant' showcases a powerful blend of classic heavy metal and traditional Chinese instruments. The concept album draws inspiration from Chinese historical figures and poets. It offers excellent production, diverse metal influences, and evocative instrumentals. Recommended for fans of folk metal and world metal enthusiasts. Dive into Dreamspirit’s General Triumphant and experience a unique fusion of metal and Chinese tradition today!

 Goatmoon is a high-quality project and just listening to an album gem like 'Voitto tai Valhalla' is enough to understand that we are dealing with an artist of absolute value.

 I adore this album, I love how Goatmoon manages to blend folk and BM without falling into the already-heard or boring for even a second.

Niklaus reviews Goatmoon's fifth album, 'Stella Polaris', noting its strong blend of Finnish folk and old-school black metal. Despite controversial ideological themes, the music stands out as artistically high quality and engaging. The album balances epic atmosphere with innovative compositions, making it a noteworthy release in the extreme metal scene. The reviewer acknowledges the provocative nature of the artist but focuses on the album's musical merits. Dive into the world of Goatmoon and experience the powerful fusion of Finnish folk and black metal in 'Stella Polaris' today!

 I wonder how Black Metal can be regarded as anything other than an authentic form of complete and all-encompassing Art.

 The masterpiece, however, in my opinion, is the final track 'Aikaan Hautautunut,' it must be listened to; it doesn’t deserve to be tainted by the written word.

Paara’s album Yön Olevainen Puoli is praised as a perfect blend of Finnish Black Metal’s darkness and luminosity. The use of native language, interplay between fast and melodic parts, and haunting female vocals enrich the album’s atmosphere. The reviewer highlights the deep folklore influences and long, well-crafted compositions. Despite limited information and distribution, the album stands as an authentic, artistic expression in the extreme music genre. Explore the haunting and melodic world of Paara’s Yön Olevainen Puoli—immerse yourself in Finnish Black Metal tradition today!

 All four albums are genuine pearls for those searching for the best pagan metal.

 Here we have the most sincere and brutal Pagan Black Metal of the best kind.

Bilskirnir’s Atavismus des Glaubens is a rare gem in the pagan black metal scene, driven by Widar’s intense vision and raw sound. The album channels ancient Germanic spirituality with a style reminiscent of Burzum and Graveland, blending slow, solemn howls with aggressive riffs. Despite being a niche project, it captures the true essence of pagan metal. The raw and chaotic production adds to its authentic underground atmosphere, making it a must-listen for extreme metal fans craving depth and tradition. Explore Bilskirnir’s Atavismus des Glaubens now and immerse yourself in authentic pagan black metal heritage.

 From the very beginning, we realize we are dealing with a band in dazzling form, capable of caressing us and suddenly lashing out with a Melodic Death Metal of devastating impact.

 Fredrick Johansson...offers us something transcendental, unique, astonishing, and from his fingers pours a clear cascade in the form of ascending and descending scales. 40 seconds to replay infinitely.

The review praises In Flames' second album, The Jester Race, as a landmark in melodic death metal from the Gothenburg scene. It highlights strong vocal performances, dynamic riffs, and memorable guitar solos, particularly on "December Flower." Despite a minor dip in one track, the album's powerful moments and cohesive structure make it a definitive metal release. The reviewer sees it as an intense and immersive listening experience for metal fans. Dive into The Jester Race and experience a melodic death metal classic—listen now and feel the power of Gothenburg metal!

 The meeting between ancient sounds and contemporary forms of expression finds in Grift its most genuine form of expression.

 If you wish to walk again on a simple but sincere path of 'earth awakening' introspection, try Grift.

Erik Gärdefors' Grift album 'Arvet' is a profound homage to Nordic heritage, blending ancient sounds with modern expression. The album evokes nature's solitude and ancestral spirits through ritualistic and ambient music. Praised for its authentic voice and evocative atmosphere, it invites listeners on a spiritual journey. Artistic elements and thoughtful presentation enhance the immersive experience. Dive into the atmospheric world of Grift's 'Arvet' and experience the mystical Nordic heritage through music.

 "You will find angry screams and reassuring modulations, folk tones and classic 'Pagan Metal' timbres, as well as hyper-fast tirades, tempo changes, choral inserts, howls, war horns, whispers, a cello, and much more."

 "The only reality is that Verity is a spectacular album. That’s all there is to it."

Nokturnal Mortum's Verity is hailed as a spectacular Black Metal album showcasing exceptional musicianship and evolving soundscapes. The review emphasizes the album's emotional depth and complex structure, blending folk elements and epic vocals into an hour-long ritualistic journey. Despite political controversies, the band's artistry stands out as undeniable. Listeners are encouraged to experience the album in full to appreciate its impact. Listen to Nokturnal Mortum's Verity now and experience a monumental journey in Black Metal artistry!

 "The sensation is not the claustrophobic and pitch-black one of the first Darkthrone, but a search for the light that seems lost."

 "Sunwolf hits the goal of being able to illuminate a genre like Black Metal, which is born in darkness but can also contain that divine light."

Blóðtrú's Sunwolf offers a fresh take on Black Metal by integrating ancient Norse pagan themes with atmospheric and hypnotic music. Unlike typical dark, oppressive sounds, it emphasizes spiritual light and rebirth. The album is both a tribute to the genre's roots and a personal, intimate artistic journey. The closing ambient track dedicated to the god Baldr adds a melancholic but radiant conclusion. Overall, it stands out as a thoughtful, meaningful release. Dive into Blóðtrú’s Sunwolf and discover a Black Metal album that lights the path to ancient pagan spirit and modern metal artistry.

 A j-horror atmosphere characterizes the entire album.

 The best song on the album could be considered as the 'Phantom of the Opera' Japanese style.

Onmyo-Za's third album, Kojin Rasetsu, blends classic heavy metal with traditional Japanese music and mythology, delivering a unique j-horror atmosphere. The band’s skilled musicianship shines through diverse tracks, from aggressive metal to ritualistic doom and progressive metal. Vocalist Kuroneko’s performance is particularly notable against a backdrop of Heian period-inspired costumes and themes. This album marked their major label debut, receiving critical acclaim in Japan. Fans of both metal and Japanese culture will find much to appreciate here. Explore Kojin Rasetsu and experience the powerful fusion of Japanese mythology and classic heavy metal now!

 They have hit the mark once again.

 Oltre…l’abisso is an album decidedly superior to the already successful Il Confine, and slightly inferior to Damnati ad Metalla, the band’s undisputed masterpiece.

Folkstone's album Oltre...l'abisso delivers a refined mix of hard rock, heavy metal, and Celtic folk with unpredictable and direct compositions. It surpasses their previous album Il confine while maintaining a strong political and social message. The album is rich with tempo changes, vocal interplay, and unique tracks including a Litfiba cover and a theatrical hidden ballad. Fans are encouraged to give it time to fully appreciate its depth and quality. Discover Folkstone’s powerful blend of folk and metal — listen to Oltre...l’abisso and experience their evolving sound!

 "We are Vikings, we are angry, and although we occasionally like to relax, our enemies are your eardrums."

 "Two of Spades: a simply ingenious track, where classic outbursts alternate with moments of pure experimental delirium."

The review praises Ensiferum's One Man Army as a solid Viking metal album with energetic performances and faithful adherence to their signature battle-ready sound. Petri Lindroos' aggressive vocals stand out, and the album balances powerful riffs with moments of experimental creativity. It is seen as a strong follow-up to their less impressive previous release, offering both confirmation to longtime fans and repair for skeptics. Dive into Ensiferum’s fierce Viking metal and experience One Man Army’s powerful battle hymns now!

 The Muse mentioned by Folkstone (in the hidden track of this album), abandoned the group after the fifth song.

 The album experiences quality fluctuations akin to the chaotic undulating motion that appears on the electrocardiogram of a cardiac patient.

Folkstone's fourth studio album 'Il Confine' marks a shift towards a more mature and thoughtful folk metal style. The first half delivers powerful and enchanting tracks blending Celtic and electric sounds, but the latter part suffers from noticeable fatigue and filler songs. Lyrical themes improve but retain some naivety. Overall, the album is worth listening for its standout moments despite inconsistent quality. Discover the enchanting folk metal world of Folkstone's 'Il Confine' and explore its unique blend of tradition and intensity.

 The proposal is that of a folkmetal with direct and linear structures, yet so engaging and fascinating that it manages to touch the heart from the first listen.

 'In Flames' is pure Nordic fury, for the most viking track of this work.

Falkenbach's Tiurida is a compelling one-man folk metal album celebrating Norse and Germanic mythology. The music balances melodic acoustic elements with intense black metal influences, delivering an emotional journey through Viking folklore. The album’s tracks highlight themes of Odinism and pagan chants, with standout pieces like 'Runes Shall You Know' and 'In Flames.' While a bonus track feels like filler, the core album remains engaging and powerful. Dive into the epic world of Viking folk metal with Falkenbach's Tiurida — listen now and experience ancient tales through powerful melodies!

 The album opens with the excellent intro 'Todeswalzer', an aggressive intro, surrounded by an atmosphere curated and never too intrusive of Righ’s keyboard.

 Part entirely recreated with synth and drums, which might wrinkle the nose of many, but which I found quite pleasant and well-integrated.

Windir's 1184 is a compelling blend of black, folk, and Viking metal that deeply connects with Nordic culture and mythology. The album features powerful melodic riffs, atmospheric keyboards, and intense vocals by Valfar. Notable tracks include the hypnotic title track, aggressive war-themed songs, and a surprising synth-driven finale. The review highlights the album's emotional depth and technical strength, praising its authenticity and unique sound. Dive into Windir's 1184 and experience a powerful blend of Nordic metal legends – listen now and explore the epic journey!

 What many don’t know, or have forgotten, is that this (sub)genre originated from good old thrash.

 This is still a raw album, but tremendously spontaneous, which I personally consider unsurpassable and conceptually superior to all current folk/viking/celtic/symphonic metal works.

Skyclad's debut album, The Wayward Sons of Mother Earth, is recognized as a foundational work in folk metal, blending thrash roots with violin and poetic lyrics. Martin Walkyer's distinctive vocal style and the album's raw, spontaneous nature set it apart from more commercial modern folk metal bands. The album is praised as conceptually superior and an authentic representation of pagan metal's beginnings. Explore Skyclad’s pioneering folk metal journey and listen to The Wayward Sons of Mother Earth—experience the roots of a legendary genre!